Discover Denver’s charm without breaking the bank. Dive in to uncover the best free activities this dynamic city has to offer.
Here’s What This Article Covers
- 20 Free Things to Do in Denver
- Weather Updates and Events in Denver
- Find the Best Hotels and Car Rentals in Denver
10 Free Things to Do in Denver
These are the must-try free experiences when you’re in Denver:
- Visit Denver Art Museum
- Walk Around Denver Botanic Gardens
- Explore Red Rocks Park
- Free Tour at Colorado State Capitol
- Enjoy City Park
- Hike Mount Falcon Park
- Discover Larimer Square
- Stroll Along 16th Street Mall
- Visit Denver Museum of Nature & Science
- Bike or Walk Cherry Creek Trail
1. Visit Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is a must-see attraction in the heart of Denver that allows you to immerse yourself in a world of creativity, free of charge. Its extensive collection spans from global contemporary art to Native American works, offering something for all art enthusiasts to enjoy.
- Location/Address: 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM Tuesday through Sunday. The first Saturday of every month is a free day, which is an ideal time to visit.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Colorado State Capitol, Civic Center Park.
- Tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the museum is quite large and requires a good amount of walking.
2. Walk Around Denver Botanic Gardens
In the heart of Denver, you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty at the Denver Botanic Gardens. This urban oasis offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle, with diverse plant life, tranquil water features, and art installations to explore at your leisure.
- Location/Address: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, USA.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The gardens are open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. The best time to visit is early morning when the gardens are less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science are within walking distance.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the gardens cover a large area and there’s plenty to see on foot.
3. Explore Red Rocks Park
Red Rocks Park, a natural wonder in Denver, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Here, you can hike breathtaking trails, marvel at the famed red sandstone formations, or simply enjoy a picnic amidst serene surroundings.
- Location/Address: Red Rocks Park, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the sun highlights the color of the rocks.
- Nearby Landmarks: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Dinosaur Ridge.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, and bring bottled water to stay hydrated.
4. Free Tour at Colorado State Capitol
Immerse yourself in Colorado’s history with a free tour of the Colorado State Capitol. This architectural marvel is not just the center of the state’s government, but also a testament to its rich past. You can explore the grandeur of its stately halls and enjoy the breathtaking view of Denver from its iconic dome.
- Location/Address: 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Tours are available from 10 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday. It’s best to visit in the morning when the building is less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: Civic Center Park, Denver Art Museum.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves a fair amount of walking, including climbing stairs to the dome.
5. Enjoy City Park
City Park in Denver is a jewel of tranquility in an urban setting. It offers scenic views, a refreshing atmosphere, and is perfect for a day of relaxation or recreation. You can enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply soak in the natural beauty around you.
- Location/Address: City Park, Colorado Blvd., and York St., Denver, CO 80205.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from 5 AM to 11 PM daily, but the best time to visit is during daylight hours.
- Nearby Landmarks: Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
- Tips: Check the weather forecast before planning your visit, as Denver’s weather can change quickly. Dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
6. Hike Mount Falcon Park
Get ready to stretch your legs and soak in the breathtaking views of Denver from Mount Falcon Park. This free outdoor adventure offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all level of hikers. Enrich your trip to Denver by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Colorado, right at the heart of Mount Falcon Park.
- Location/Address: Mount Falcon Park, 21074 Mount Falcon Rd, Indian Hills, CO 80454.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The park is open from sunrise to sunset. The best time to hike is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Nearby Landmarks: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Bear Creek Lake Park.
- Tips: Make sure to wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, especially during the summer months. Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
7. Discover Larimer Square
Experience the historic charm and vibrant culture of Denver at Larimer Square. As the city’s oldest block, you can explore a wealth of unique shops, dine at locally-owned restaurants, or simply enjoy the beautifully preserved architecture.
- Location/Address: Larimer Square, Denver, CO 80202.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Larimer Square is accessible throughout the day but to fully enjoy the restaurants and shops, consider visiting between 11 AM and 10 PM.
- Nearby Landmarks: Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Union Station.
- Tips: Try to visit during one of Larimer Square’s frequent events or festivals for an extra splash of local color and culture.
8. Stroll Along 16th Street Mall
Experience the vibrant energy of Denver as you take a leisurely stroll along the 16th Street Mall. This pedestrian-friendly mall is lined with outdoor cafes, restaurants, and a variety of shops – all nestled among beautiful, historic buildings. You can enjoy street performances, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of Denver’s heart.
- Location/Address: 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO 80202.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The 16th Street Mall is always open, but the shops and cafes generally operate from 10 AM to 9 PM.
- Nearby Landmarks: Denver Pavilion, Denver Art Museum, Colorado State Capitol.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your stroll and explore the numerous side streets leading off the mall.
9. Visit Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the universe at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Here, you can explore a variety of exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur fossils to outer space. This museum is a fantastic free activity for those who enjoy interactive learning experiences.
- Location/Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but it’s less crowded in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Nearby Landmarks: Denver Zoo, City Park.
- Tips: Check the museum’s calendar for free days, usually offered a few times throughout the year.
10. Bike or Walk Cherry Creek Trail
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Denver by biking or walking along the Cherry Creek Trail. This scenic trail winds through the heart of the city, providing a peaceful yet engaging outdoor experience. You can enjoy the refreshing air, observe local flora and fauna, and get a unique perspective of Denver’s urban environment.
- Location/Address: Cherry Creek Trail, Denver, CO, 80202.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The trail is open 24/7, but daytime hours are recommended for the best visibility and safety. The spring and fall seasons offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
- Nearby Landmarks: Confluence Park, Denver Art Museum, and the Denver Mint.
- Tips: Wear comfortable footwear, and remember to carry water and sunscreen, especially in the summer months. The trail can get busy, so maintain a reasonable speed and be considerate of other users.
Weather Updates and Events in Denver
Stay informed about the weather and events in Denver:
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